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David D Smith

All articles tagged with #david d smith

media2 years ago

"Baltimore Sun's Controversial New Owner Sparks Newsroom Tension"

The Baltimore Sun, Maryland's largest newspaper, has been purchased by David D. Smith, the executive chairman of the conservative Sinclair Broadcast Group, raising concerns among staff and observers about potential political influence on the publication. The acquisition marks the return of the 186-year-old newspaper to local ownership, but many fear that Smith's political interests may impact the paper's editorial independence, given Sinclair's history of aligning with former President Donald Trump and requiring stations to film promos echoing his attacks on the news media.

business2 years ago

"Baltimore Sun Staff Navigate Turbulent Transition Under New Right-Wing Owner"

The Baltimore Sun's staff clashed with new owner David D. Smith, a television executive and lifelong resident of the Baltimore area, during a tense meeting where Smith expressed negative opinions about the newspaper and its coverage. Smith, the executive chairman of the Sinclair Broadcast Group, has faced concerns about his intentions for the 186-year-old newspaper, especially given Sinclair's marked conservative bent in recent years. The staff expressed concerns about Smith's lack of understanding of print media standards and journalism ethics, as well as his focus on clicks over journalistic value. Smith's plans for the Sun remain unclear, but his statements about getting out of the paper business and his family foundation's contributions to conservative and right-wing advocacy groups have raised further questions about the newspaper's future editorial direction.

business-media2 years ago

"Baltimore Sun Sold to Local Business Leader Amid Political and Ownership Concerns"

David D. Smith, executive chairman of Sinclair Broadcasting, has purchased the Baltimore Sun Media, raising concerns due to his conservative background and previous criticisms of print media. Smith aims to make the newsroom more profitable but has faced skepticism from some employees and former journalists. While some celebrate the sale, others worry about potential partisan influence on the 187-year-old publication, which has a history of credible reporting and 16 Pulitzer Prizes. The sale comes after the investment firm Alden Global Capital's cost-cutting ownership and amid competition from the digital-only news organization, The Baltimore Banner.

business-media2 years ago

Sinclair Chairman David D. Smith Acquires Baltimore Sun

The Baltimore Sun, Maryland's largest newspaper, has been sold to David D. Smith, the executive chairman of Sinclair TV stations, in a private deal with Alden Global Capital. Smith, a Baltimore native, aims to support his hometown newspaper and believes in its potential profitability and public service. The sale marks the first time in nearly four decades that the Sun will have a local owner. The newspaper has faced challenges from declining circulation and advertising revenue, as well as competition from The Baltimore Banner. Smith's acquisition reflects a trend of wealthy investors seeking to revive news organizations, and Baltimore Sun Media has earned 16 Pulitzer Prizes, with The Capital Gazette receiving a special Pulitzer citation for its coverage of a 2018 shooting attack.

business2 years ago

Maryland Business Leader Acquires Baltimore Sun Media

David D. Smith, executive chairman of Sinclair Inc., has acquired The Baltimore Sun and its affiliated publications from investment firm Alden Global Capital, marking the first time in nearly four decades that the newspaper will be in the hands of a local owner. Smith aims to revitalize the struggling newspaper industry by focusing on local news, investigations, and community engagement, while integrating technology and boosting subscriptions and advertising. The acquisition, made independently of Sinclair, is part of Smith's effort to serve the public interest and hold those in power accountable, with plans to retain the newspaper's service agreements and eventually operate it as a stand-alone business.